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The Graduate School at The University of Alabama offers a comprehensive suite of professional development programs. The skills gained in these programs will give students the tools necessary to be successful in the job market and in life. Examples of Graduate School professional development programs include: how to write effectively (including everything from how to write an abstract to dissertation writing retreats); communication (including elevator pitches and comprehensive research presentations); job search skills (e.g. how to write a CV, interview skills, networking skills, and non-traditional career paths); teaching skills (how to effectively teach at the undergraduate and graduate levels); work-life balance (including methods to reduce stress and improve health and wellness); and leadership.

CGS is the leading source of information, data analysis, and trends in graduate education. Our benchmarking data help member institutions to assess performance in key areas, make informed decisions, and develop plans that are suited to their goals.

CGS Best Practice initiatives address common challenges in graduate education by supporting institutional innovations and sharing effective practices with the graduate community. Our programs have provided millions of dollars of support for improvement and innovation projects at member institutions.

As the national advocate for graduate education, CGS serves as a resource for policymakers and others on issues concerning graduate education, research, and scholarship. CGS members receive regular updates of legislative and regulatory proposals impacting graduate education and are provided resources to use in advocacy efforts on their campuses and with policymakers and other constituents.

CGS is an authority on global trends in graduate education and a leader in the international graduate community. Our resources and meetings on global issues help members internationalize their campuses, develop sustainable collaborations, and prepare their students for a global future.